Natalie Carden is making her Beaumaris Theatre Inc. debut in Little Miss Sunshine this September. We asked her to step under the spotlight to get to know her better.
What do you love about your character?
Her strength and resilience, which is definitely challenged throughout the show! Also, her ability to show empathy and to put others first.
What are you most looking forward to with this production?
Telling a really quirky story that isn't your typical musical! It's also great to be showing audiences something different that isn't performed in Melbourne very often.
Without giving anything away, what’s your favourite line of dialogue from the show?
"The usual way; someone was supposed to be careful"
Who in the show is most like their character?
This is a tough one because the characters in the show are so dysfunctional! Maybe Amelie (Olive) because both are very sweet but also have a determination and confidence about them.
What will the audience be talking about in the car home from this show?
The rollercoaster! This show definitely has a bit of everything. And although they are quite extreme in the show, I also think they might see reflections of their own family highs and lows that they might relate to. Overall though, I just hope they talk about how much they enjoyed it!
When you are not on stage, where can you be found?
If I'm not on stage you'll probably find me in the audience! Or in a cafe or a restaurant, walking my dog Molly, or on a plane on my way to the next holiday!
What was your most memorable theatrical experience?
Now THIS is tough! One of my first big roles was as Morticia in The Addams Family (Phoenix Theatre Co.) and it was challenging and wonderful, I met some wonderful people and that was definitely memorable. RENT (WMTC) was a bucket-list show which I ticked off in 2017, I've loved that show since I saw it in high school and it was a dream to be involved. My first show post-lockdown was Island Song (SLAMS) which was a beautiful show and took place in a really emotional time and it was just an absolute joy. I could go on but I've probably already said too many!
What was your first ever role on stage?
I played the Wicked Queen in a really small version of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at primary school. I think I was 11 or 12. The "stage" was the front of one of the larger classrooms, but that totally counts, right??
What is your dream role?
Can I have 7?? Liz/Beth in If/Then, Diana in Next to Normal, Cathy in The Last Five Years, Bobby in Company, Mary in JC Superstar, Lucy in Jekyll and Hyde, Nancy in Oliver! The list goes on...
